Why Lewis Hamilton Will Be Cheering For Both England And Brazil At The FIFA World Cup

Last Updated:June 07, 2026, 15:50 IST

Lewis Hamilton says he will support both England and Brazil at the World Cup, revealing his lifelong admiration for the Selecao, Brazilian culture and football’s street roots.

As the FIFA World Cup approaches, Ferrari star Lewis Hamilton has admitted he will be cheering for not one, but two nations this summer: England and Brazil.

The seven-time Formula One world champion, speaking ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, revealed that while England remains his home nation, Brazil has long been his favourite football team.

For Hamilton, the connection goes far deeper than football results or star players.

‘Brazil Has Always Been My Favourite Team’

Hamilton explained that his love for Brazil began during childhood, when the Selecao’s flair, colours and style of play captured his imagination.

“For me, it’s tied with England," Hamilton said, as quoted by Mirror. “Honestly, Brazil has always been my favourite team. Growing up in England, I used to love watching Brazil play. I think it’s the colours, the culture, and the players always just looked the most skilled, they were so cool."

A Bond Beyond Football

Hamilton’s relationship with Brazil is not new.

In November 2022, he was awarded honorary Brazilian citizenship, recognising both his admiration for the country and his longstanding connection to the legacy of three-time Formula One world champion Ayrton Senna.

The British driver has frequently spoken about Senna’s influence on his life and career, often describing the Brazilian legend as one of his greatest inspirations.

But Hamilton’s admiration extends beyond motorsport.

Inspired By Brazil’s Football Culture

The Ferrari driver said he has always been fascinated by the stories behind Brazil’s football stars, many of whom emerged from difficult backgrounds before reaching the top of the game.

“I just appreciate where they come from. Many of the players come from the streets where they play with no shoes and there’s something quite special about Brazilian culture."

This summer at the World Cup, England arrive with one of the most talented squads in world football, while Brazil once again carry the expectations that come with being perennial title favourites.

About the Author

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His...Read More

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